A MAN has been disqualified from driving, despite not having a valid licence.

Daniel Boekhoudt, 40, of Tollgate Drive, Stanway, appeared at Colchester Magistrates’ Court yesterday having admitted four offences last month.

He was charged with driving without a licence and insurance, as well as two counts of driving with defective tyres in Peace Road, Colchester on August 7 last year.

The court heard he had his licence taken away in 2000 after being caught drink driving, and he decided not to reapply after the disqualification period was over.

Boekhoudt told the court he was driving because his friend, who owns the car, was unwell, so he drove the pair home.

Although Boekhoudt does not hold a licence, he said he was planning to reapply because of work.

However, the magistrates disqualified him from driving for nine months.

This means he will not be able to apply for a new licence until after that time.

He was also ordered to pay £442.